On the recordDecember 12, 2012
Mr. Speaker, during his campaign for re-election, the President called for a balanced approach to solve the fiscal cliff crisis. Unfortunately, the plan his administration submitted to Congress does not include the spending cuts necessary to address our Nation's $16 trillion national debt. According to Senate Budget Committee Ranking Member Jeff Sessions' staff's calculation of data from the Congressional Budget Office and the Office of Management and Budget, the President's plan suggests that roughly 75 percent, or $1.2 trillion, in new revenue be directed to new spending instead of deficit reduction. The fiscal cliff must be averted to protect our economy for future generations. Yesterday, House Speaker John Boehner asked the President to identify specific cuts he is willing to make for a balanced approach. I hope the President will take immediate action so progress can be made for a bipartisan solution. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism. ____________________
